L. Frank Baum

“ Merrick was in violent hysterics at the disappearance of her daughter. Arthur stopped long enough to telephone for a doctor and then drove to the Doyles. He routed up Uncle John and the Major, who appeared in pajamas and bath-robes, and told them the startling news.
A council of war was straightway held. Uncle John trembled with nervousness; Arthur was mentally stupefied; the Major alone was calm.
"In the first place," said he, "what object could the man have in carrying off Louise?"
Arthur hesitated.
"To prevent our marriage, I suppose," he answered. "Mershone has an idea he loves Louise. ”

“ He made wild love to her until she cut his acquaintance."
"But it won't help him any to separate her from her friends, or her promised husband," declared the Major. "Don't worry. We're sure to find her, sooner or later." ”

“ So make your minds easy. Wherever the poor lass has been taken to, she's probably safe enough."
"But think of her terror—her suffering!" cried Uncle John, wringing his chubby hands. "Poor child! It may be his idea to compromise her, and break her heart!"
"We'll stop all that, John, never fear," promised the Major. "The first thing to do is to find a good detective."
"Fogerty!" exclaimed Arthur, searching for the card.
"Who's Fogerty?"
"I don't know."
"Get the best man possible!" commanded Mr. Merrick. "Spare no expense; hire a regiment of detectives, if necessary ”